Short Summary

In Dacca, the leader of Bangladesh' Opposition National Awami Party (NAP) is continuing a hunger strike he began on Tuesday (15 May) at his party's headquarters.

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In Dacca, the leader of Bangladesh' Opposition National Awami Party (NAP) is continuing a hunger strike he began on Tuesday (15 May) at his party's headquarters.

Maulana Abdual Hamid Khan Bhashani, was is believed to be 80 years old, started the strike to back his demands for the eradication of political, economic and social ills in Bangladesh.

He's blamed Indian rulers and what he called big money and says increasing Indian influence threatens the independence of Bangladesh.

The Maulana listed rising prices as major problem facing the country and said he hoped this could be tackled is smuggling, which is rife along the border with India, were checked.

He also demanded an end to political victimisation. At a mass rally on Monday (14 May), the Maulana, who is regarded as pro-Peking, called on the government to take the initiative in cultivating friendship with China.

The Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Mujobur Rahman, has asked the Maulana to end his hunger strike and co-operate with the government in tackling the country's problems. The Maulana has replied that it would be criminal if he betrayed the people by ending his strike before his demands were met.

The condition of the Maulana's health is causing concern to doctors. He's been suffering form intermittent high fever since Thursday night.

During his fast he's been visited by many prominent people. Two of his disciples also began token hunger strikes in support of him on Friday.